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With life and work placing an ever-increasing demand upon my spare time, I’ve found myself with less time to devote to my blog. So in an effort to continue providing content to those of you who have been kind enough to become followers and /or subscribers of my blog, I will be altering my format slightly. These changes should get me back on track to providing a greater frequency of blog posts.

So here goes…

In previous posts I’ve written about how external influences can affect one’s photographic inspiration, be it from weather, temperature, lighting, a particular event or even participation in a weekend car show. In many cases the experience, as well as the perceptions during an event can blur. It’s only when uploading the imagery onto the computer and beginning my post production work, that these patterns and the influences become apparent.

Over the past several months, I’ve experienced this phenomenon multiple times, and the following digital snippets represent the end results of my photographic observations.

Hopefully, my first experiment has not been a total train wreck, and to my kind followers / subscribers, you have found these images to be worthy of your time.

As the sign outside Deus Ex Machina stated, Sunday September 7 was to be the site for Luftgekuhlt, which loosely translated, implies a celebration of air-cooled cars, and as stated on this morning,”Porsches”. Not unlike the sign sent to Paul Revere many years ago, but in this case a signal sent out to rally the Porsche community.

And what a signal it was. The amazing turnout clearly demonstrated that the message had been received. By the time my son and I arrived at 8:30 AM, the parking lot was already packed to the gills…

Fortunately, the event hosts (Patrick Long and Howie Idelson) were able to squeeze me in, and found a spot for me to park amid my fellow Porsche 911 owners. Since this was intended as a celebration of air-cooled Porsches, a full compliment of models were present, starting with a variety of 356 models, displayed in coupe and cabriolet form…

and supplemented by an eclectic cross-section of Porsche 911s. Examples ranged from early 911s (aka Longhoods), represented by an early 1966 911 GT, one 1968 911, a variety of 911S models, and an example of Porsches ultimate 1973 911; the 911 Carrera RS.

Below, a 1969 911S race car, club raced back in the day by the late Paul Newman and by Bill Freeman. This car represents one of the latest acquisitions by the automotive group TruSpeed, based in Costa Mesa , CA.

Another of the race inspired RGruppe 911, in this case a 1969 911ST, owned by Chad McQueen, obviously influenced at an early age by his father (the late Steve McQueen), and his collection of Porsches, and their families involvement in racing.

One of the several Porsche 911S models on display, and representing the RGruppe car club.

A hint to this motors modifications beyond stock; a twin plug ignition, with its snake nest of 12 spark plug wires. An obvious clue that this is no longer a stock 2.2 liter 911S motor.

Like begets like; a silver 911S reflected in the fender of the host 911S.

Representing the 1973 model year, was an example of a Porsche iteration that firmly established the 911s competition pedigree; the Porsche 911 Carrera RS…

and a model that introduced the world to the brands new duck tail spoiler.

The sole representative from the 914 community was one very cool, blue Porsche 914-6 (below), seen hanging out with a variety of Porsche 911s.

Parked immediately across from Evolution row, and next to a trio of Porsche 911s from Magnus Walker’s collection, was another rare and highly modified Porsche; one of the latest 911 creations in white from the team at Singer Vehicle Design (as seen below).

A glimpse of the Singer’s austere engine compartment and its highly modified, purpose-built motor (below).

Interesting details and technology abound from any angle.

Rear decklid with graphics and Singer badging.

(Below), A close up view of the Singer’s dimensional rear decklid badging.

Parked out front of the Deus facility, helping garner attention to the mornings activities, was this beautiful red VW single cab transporter, embellished with hand painted Porsche super graphics.

Another of the Porsche parked out front of the Deus Ex Machina facility; in this case one very cool, black 993 Carrera C4 coupe.

A four-wheeled, Porsche 993 mirror… (above and below)

As the morning progressed, and with participants coming and going, our hosts were challenged with being sensitive to the surrounding businesses. So for some of us, that meant the need to move to the primary Deus parking lot, and consolidate with the remaining cars parked in the Deus lot. So imagine my surprise when I found myself now parked between two icons; Porsche ultimate expression of the 993 model, the GT2, to my left, and to my right, the Signer 911…and all three cars in white !

For those unfamiliar with Porsche 993 GT2, just seeing one in person is incredible, given the rarity of this model. This is only the second true 993 GT2 that I have seen in person (my first sighting was of a silver 993 GT2 parked on the streets of London, while on a business trip back in 2000).

Porsche only produced the 993 based GT2 from 1993 to 1998. The 993 GT2 was powered by a 3.6 liter, twin turbocharged flat six motor producing 430 horsepower. Then in 1998, Porsche increased the GT2s performance, boosting horsepower up to 450. Power was managed through a six speed manual transmission, and capable of delivering 0-60 times of 3.9 seconds, and 0-100 mph times in only 8.7 seconds. According to my research, Porsche only built a total of 57, 993 based GT2 road cars, with 7 of those models manufactured for the right hand drive market.

Another of the unique, identifying design details found on the 993 GT2 (as seen below); the three-piece modular, Speedline racing wheel.

The model specific rear wing, with dual air intakes, designed to feed cool, fresh air to the twin turbocharged motor, and wearing dual GT2 embossed end plates.

The owner of this GT2 was kind enough to field a mornings worth of questions about his car;the most common question being what is it? For those in the know, it was obvious that this was in fact a 993 GT2, and not a clone or re-creation. The owner also shared with us that this particular car possessed the horsepower upgrade (450 horsepower), making it one of the 1998 models. We also learned two more interesting facts about this particular GT2. The first was that this car had been purchased from its original owner in Japan, and secondly, upon its successful importation into the United States, it became what is to be believed only one of two true 993 GT2s residing within the USA.

Where else but in Southern California, could an event of this magnitude be held, and draw as diverse and rare a collection of Porsche as those that participated.

Given the success and turnout experienced on September 7, and based upon comments shared by one of the events host (Patrick Long), it appears it will only be a matter of time before a second Luftgekuhlt event will once again be held.

Celebrating the classics was an underlying theme recently at Cars&Coffee / Irvine. This fact became quite obvious as I pulled into Porsche row just behind the Type 964 / C4 Pikes Peak rally car seen below. Driving and navigation duties were carried out by two young women, who just happened to be the daughters of the owner. With a deft hand, the 964 was backed into its space, parked beside their father’s 1953 Porsche 356A coupe.

Continuing with the classics theme, was a 1960s vintage race car, making its presence known by the quickly gathering crowd as witnessed in the “featured parking lot”.

An unmistakable classic, making only its second Saturday morning appearance at cars&coffee…

For anyone growing up during the 1960’s and who followed auto racing, it was obvious as to the identity of this low slung, white race car with black striping. Hard to mistake this race car for anything but the iconic, American built factory backed race car that it is; a 1967 Ford GT MK IV.

A peek inside the closed cockpit…

and out back, a close up view of another classic component; the premier Ford race motor of the 1960’s, the mighty 427. And as seen on this car, a motor with its dual carburetors housed within a clear polycarbonate chamber, allowing the motor to be force-fed fresh air by dual NACA air ducts, each located on the rear deck, atop the rear fenders.

Visible through its rear window (below); the single, treaded “spare tire” and immediately to its right, the fabricated aluminum “luggage box”. A requirement mandated for all competitors in the Prototype Endurance class, per F.I.A. competition regulations that remained in effect into the 1970’s.

Further down the row, awaiting discovery by fans of english sports cars, was this beautifully restored Austin Healey 100, adorned by an assortment of rally badging, and flanked by a pair of driving lights complete with stone guards.

The Healey’s highly detailed interior. Equal in quality and attention to detail, on par with its exterior.

Another European classic encountered, parked amid a cluster of BMW’s. A spectacular, highly modified example of a mid 1970s vintage BMW 2002.

And as the fender graphics proclaim, a twin turbo, updated to the owners specifications, with a hint to its true potential revealed by the rear badging; “3002 ttii / twin turbo”.

Another classic Ford present on this morning, and making what I believe to be its debut at cars&coffee. As seen below, a 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint, built by the firm VinRacer, as their interpretation of a period correct “Trans Am Racer”.

Vin Racer describes themselves as creators of “vintage speed”, dedicated to the building of high performance, pre-1969 vehicles specific to a client’s desires. For anyone interested, please use the link above to check out their website for a full description of their services.

Even the engine compartment was as impressive as the exterior. Hidden beneath the louvered hood and braced within its spartan engine compartment, was home to the impressive, HI-PO 289 cubic inch motor, good for a reported 300 horsepower.

One of the last cars to leave the event that morning, yet still fielding questions from visitors interested in the Falcon.

Another example of why attending this show on a weekly basis is so rewarding. Surprises abound, and regardless of your favorite make or model, you’re assured of finding a vehicle to capture your interests.

“Thunderstorms hit Southern California”, yet fail to dampen the spirits of those attending the 2014 LA Airport Hilton Hotel Literature and Memorabilia show, and the Phoenix Club’s Porsche show and swap meet.

Below is an example of the crowd present for this years LA Airport Hilton Hotel Literature and Memorabilia show. I was told by friends who had arrived early to be part of the paid “early entry” at 7AM, that they had never seen so many people show up for the early entry, and that the crowds at 9 AM were equally impressive.

One of several display tables with an assortment of driving lights, fog and tail lights.

Vintage Hella tail lights, application unknown. However, the Hella 128 fog lights (as noted by the price tag seen below) were optional on Porsche 911s dating back to 1966. It pains me to see the current asking price for a set of 128s, especially since I sold a pristine pair to a friend back in 1973 for $45.

Several rows over was another table full of favorites; car grill / badge bar commemorative plaques…

all very cool and expensive, with each possessing unique detail and color.

One of the nicest Porsche parts displays present (seen below), showcasing an unrivaled variety of Porsche 356 parts for sale, presented by the firm Stoddard NLA-LLC.

The following day (Sunday) traditionally hosts a larger, outdoor swap meet and car show down in Orange County, at the Phoenix Club in Anaheim. In all of my years of attendance, this was the first time rain would impact the event. The Porsche community however is a hearty lot, so a little rain was not about to affect their show…

An early 911 headlight (below), equipped with a European spec, amber French lens.

One highly visible, glow in the rain Porsche 930 turbo.

One rain drenched Porsche super car; the rare Type 959. Even at rest, the rain sheets right off…

One of the Porsche 356 representatives present, showing no apprehension regarding the morning rain.

Proof that water does bead up on highly waxed surfaces.

Representing the early long hood community, was this beautifully prepared Beige Gray 1968 Porsche 911.

Rear decklid and side stripes with a rally sport inspired graphic treatment; could these graphics be the handiwork of werkcrew founder Bob Tilton?

The equally impressive, rally / race inspired motor.

More proof that Southern California Porsche owners drive their cars in the rain…

and the rest of the car covered by the morning rain.

Several of the early morning arrivals, parked up close to the building and protected from the majority of the rain showers.

A pair of Porsche GTs staged out in the rain; a 1972 911 GT and the rally prepared,1970 914-6…

The real deal; a close up view of true 914-6 GT factory fender flares.

Proof of this vehicles pedigree; a record of its previous participant and survivor status in the Panama / Alaska Rally.

One of the early 911S models on display at this years show…

complete with a recent acquisition by the owner, proudly displayed on the dash.

This burgundy 911S was also one of the few Porsches at the show equipped with a roof mounted, Leitz brand luggage rack.

One of the local RGruppe members, displaying a variety of magnetic vinyl club event plaques on his front hood.

One rain-soaked rear decklid, wrapped in Martini racing graphics.

Below, further evidence of the morning drizzle…

on what initially appeared to be an early 1970s vintage Porsche 911. However, upon closer inspection it became obvious that this car was actually a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Concealed beneath its skin lurked a 1986 3.2 liter, Porsche 911 Carrera having undergone a conversion known as “backdating”. That effort combined with the visually correct, optional front and rear bumper overriders, created a convincing 1970s appearing Porsche 911.

Suspicions confirmed… and itemized.

A convincing re-spray, in period correct Irish green.

One of the apparent casualties of the morning rain; a shrunken Porsche 550 Spyder, reduced in size and now able to fit into the bed of a single cab VW type 2, being displayed by the folks from fibersteel.

Even with rain impacting this years event, there was still a huge turnout, illustrating the impact that this event holds for the Southern California Porsche community. And based upon the variety of different foreign accents overheard during the weekend, it’s easy to see the wide reaching pull that this event has on Porsche fans from around the globe.

The next event coming up for the Southern California Porsche community will be the California Festival of Speed, at the Auto Club Speedway, in Fontana, California from April 4-6. Let’s all hope for a warm sunny weekend…

“Winter rain shrinks Type 2 Transporter, or how I spent my Saturday morning at the 2014 OCTO Winter Meet”. Thankfully the rains that had arrived late in the week in Southern California had left as Saturday, February 8th approached. The reason for my concern was that on Saturday, the “2014 OCTO Winter Meet” would once again be held at the Long Beach Veterans Memorial Stadium, and I had missed their last event. Fortunately for all involved, Saturday morning dawned crisp and clear, albeit a bit cooler than we Southern Californians are used to.

It’s hard to imagine a better view for anyone interested in VW Type 2 transporters, than the scene presented below, upon entry into this years Winter meet.

Anchoring the end of the first row was this beautiful green and white early 1960s Type 2 bus.

Having just completed the restoration on a set of Bosch European H4 headlights off of my Porsche 911, I have a new-found appreciation and interest in German headlights; trim rings, reflectors and flawless, crystal clear glass lenses from Bosch and Hella. The headlights on this bus (seen above and below), absolutely blew me away. (This image has become one of my favorite detail shots from this show).

The next bus I came across turned out to be a long-term (but nearing completion), father and son project. One very cool safari – windowed, 1963 Type 2 (as seen below), worked on together in the evenings. The teenage son told me that within a year, the bus will become his new ride, as soon as he gets his license. His dad then told me that upon the completion of this project, he will again be on a hunt for his next challenge, perhaps the restoration of a Porsche 356 or maybe even an early 911.

A low-level, early morning perspective, captured using an often overlooked medium for reflections…

and a variation on a theme. A beautifully restored two-tone Microbus, equipped with a full complement of pop out windows, and rolling on a set of chromed, Porsche 5 spoke alloy wheels.

A close up of its front wheel; a 4- 1/2 X 15 inch, Porsche 5 spoke alloy as seen below.

Parked along one the many perpendicular rows, was the Dove blue, late 1950s vintage Panel / Delivery van, with an interesting painted graphic on its flanks (seen below). Definitely worthy of nostalgia points, and visually period correct to the opening date of Disneyland. Could this panel van have been part of the vehicle pool at the Park back in the late 1950s? My curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to ask the owner about the origins of the bus and its graphics. I learned that the owner is an advertising and marketing consultant to Disney, and apparently received permission to apply the Disneyland logo type onto his vintage van. Unfortunately, he revealed that this Type 2 van was never part of the Disneyland fleet.

Parked immediately behind the Disneyland panel van was another vintage Dove Blue bus (below), however in this case, it was an early 1960s SO model, specifically an SO2 ( High Roof Mobile Shop) version according to my research.

The vintage duo …

As the license plate below clearly states, yes, it’s a 1967 Deluxe Bus complete with a full set of pop-outs, safari windows up top, and a sliding roof panel, all opened to let in the early morning light and fresh air.

Parked further down the row was another early 1960s Deluxe Bus, this one showing its age with its heavily aged turquoise paint, and similarly equipped with pop outs and safari windows up top, all resting on a set of Porsche 5 spoke alloy wheels.

Another early 1960s vintage Microbus below, wearing multi-colored body panels, but with a highly reflective door.

One never knows what might be lurking within the parked vehicles. So imagine my surprise at seeing this cat poke its head up as I passed behind the bus, and engaged me in a stare-down. Even as I raised my camera to take this shot, the cat just stared back…

Below, one of the more highly restored models present; an early 1960s Microbus, in two-tone pale green and white, and another example running chromed Porsche 5 spoke alloy wheels.

Another front end detail shot, illustrating a different style of headlight lens, close in configuration and profile to the European Bosch H4 headlights found on many Porsche 911s, but for this Type 2 application the lens is oriented horizontally.

The finishing touch for many of the type 2’s in attendance; the classic, dash mounted touch of Hawaii, a.k.a. the “hula girl”.

Parked along the row closest to the stadium, was one of the events elder statesman; this beautifully prepared, post 1955 Transporter, dressed in the classic Sealing Wax Red and Chestnut Brown paint combination.

Scattered throughout the event were also a variety of vehicles offered up for sale. Below are several examples of the Type 2s on display, and looking for new homes.

First up was the 1963 VW Double cab as seen below…

Close up view of another 1963 vintage headlight lens and turn signal combination (below).

Taped to the inside of the window was a thorough description outlining the extent of the recent restoration, followed up by a second sheet noting the price, and contact information.

Even the engine compartment and motor received attention, including what appears to be a translucent, candy colored fan shroud treatment, providing the intense flash of color.

The second Type 2 being offered for sale was this Ivory colored, late 1950s vintage single cab, complete with a set of new rear bed hoops and wooden cross braces.

The subtle approach to “previously -owned” vehicle pricing…

Taking a slightly more subdued approach to restoration, staying true to its stock roots, right down to its motor.

Bone stock motor ( below), complete with its left oriented, oil bath air filter, and utilized by VW from 1955 through 1963.

A charter member of the highly restored, late 1950s Microbus camp, dressed in what appeared to be a Dove blue and White paint scheme.

Spectacular from any view…

This bus had to possess one of the nicest paint jobs found in the show, as witnessed by the distortion free reflections viewed in its side body panels. No doubt the end result of endless hours of block sanding all body panels prior to the application of its finish paint.

Tucked away towards the middle of the parking lot, was a beautifully restored, 1958 Type 2 Single Cab, in a glowing red and white paint scheme, complete with roof rack and rear bed hoops with wood cross bracing.

The reason this Type 2 looks so amazing is clearly noted on each door; this bus is the owners daily driver / work vehicle as he goes about his business as an automotive detailer. And what better way of showcasing ones business and skills, than with a pristine 1958 Single Cab as a rolling business card.

One aspect of these shows that I thoroughly enjoy, is the opportunity to talk with the owners about their vehicles, while capturing images of their rides. In this case, I struck up a conversation with the owner (Ryan), and learned that his Single Cab had been a Christmas present from his wife nine years ago (how cool is his wife!). It’s apparent that all of his work over the years have been a true labor of love for the owner. And given the number of people stopping by to talk with him about his Single Cab, his hard work has not gone unnoticed.

The period correct, 1958 shallow profiled glass headlight lens and its companion bullet indicator. I also found it interesting to note the different ribbing details, visible on the glass headlight lens below.

The spotless interior, complete with a subtle detail; the inclusion of a Porsche crest as the steering wheel horn button.

Ryan’s license plate stating the obvious; given the highly reflective nature of this paint finish, it’s clear to see the owner knows how to detail a vehicle. I wonder how many time this Single Cab has been waxed ?

Last up is the third of my selected standout Type 2s from the show, as seen below.

Even the interior was as clean and detailed as the outside of this early 1960s vintage bus.

Located out back was one very unexpected sight. Tucked into the engine bay, was a very impressive turbocharged motor, which according to the owner, really make this bus into a freeway flyer, and a lot of fun to drive.

As a by-product of the unusually cold, clear mornings that Southern California has been experiencing, mother nature has produced some amazing lighting, which in turn translates to the beautiful highlights and reflections draped across a variety of vehicles present at cars&coffee/Irvine.

The following photos represent yet another opportunity for me to study and record the unique automotive highlights, reflections and illuminated details, as represented by the photos below…

Rear deck lid with punched in louvers in classic “356 Outlaw” style.

An incredible interior produced in saddle colored leather (as seen above). The scent of the leather instantly reminded me of sitting in my grandfather’s 1950’s vintage Mercedes-Benz cabriolet as a little kid, surrounded by its aromatic, red leather interior.

Even the fuel tank located in the front trunk ( below) was finished to the same level of detail as the silver exterior. The finish on the fuel tank shone like a mirror, recreating the images of the sky and cloud cover floating overhead.

A brand new 2014 Porsche 991 coupe, resplendent in Riviera Blue. According to the owner (who arranged for european delivery of this special order Type 991), and upon receipt of his car in Stuttgart, was told by Porsche that this is the only 991 that has been painted Riviera Blue… how cool is that!

Parked among the group along Porsche row were multiple examples of 1970s vintage 914 models. In this case, the front hood of a restored tangerine colored Porsche 914-6, bathed in reflections.

My next stop would be at the Featured lot, where on this morning I encountered the stunning Jaguar XK-150 roadster seen below, parked amidst a row of Corvettes, and reflecting on its surroundings.

A close up of the XK-150s hood ornament and front grill badging.

On the other side of the Featured lot were these two, brand new 2014 Porsche 991s courtesy of Walter’s Porsche from Riverside. The 911 Carrera 4S cabriolet as seen below, turned out to have been painted a very unique, and special order color. The color in question turned out to be Stone Gray, which was originally offered as a “special order color”, during the 1957 through 1959 Porsche 356 model years.

Another visible cue used for identifying a Type 991 Carrera 4S; the red, horizontal reflector strip, bridging the gap between the rear tail lights, and inset just below the rear deck lid.

Making a rare appearance at cars&coffee was this black (Nero Pastello) Ferrari 599 as seen below. One could not ask for a better color on a 599, for showcasing the incredible reflections wrapping themselves across the striking contours of the bodywork.

Even the side mirrors held surprises for anyone willing to stop and take the time to study the variety of details found across the Ferrari.

The Ferrari 599 stealth fighter at rest, basking in the morning’s light…

Returning to Porsche row, I came across another frequent visitor; this beautiful Irish Green 1968 Porsche 912, complete with reflections defining the contours of its front hood and fenders.

One of the late arrivals to the featured lot seen below. A black Ford GT 40 Mk II recreation, shining like a mirror, enhanced by the spectacular, form defining reflections.

And last but not least, a beautifully maintained, India Red Porsche 911 SC, complete with its German license plate below.

Come to think of it, I did see a large, jolly looking man in a red coat and white beard casually walking through the crowd that morning. Could this license plate be a clue to his identity?